Archive for the ‘AUSTRALIA’ Category

Major League Baseball is hoping to open either the 2008 or 2009 season outside of the United States. Five countries (Australia, Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan) are bidding to be the host site. Opening Day has taken place outside of the U.S. of A. 4 times in the past, Mexico (1999), Puerto Rico (2001) and Japan (2000 and 2004). What could make this time special is the possibility of opening in more than one foreign country. Director of Major League Baseball for Australia and New Zealand, Tom Nicholson:

“To create that emphasis of a single series opening it has usually been just two teams opening and it’s one event, but there’s certainly possibilities of entertaining the concept of maybe series in a couple of countries. That’s one item that’s being looked by our international office.”

I’m cool with whatever that country wins… I’m sure the players are hoping for one of the Asian countries so they won’t have to fly to Australia. Plus, I think when you get a hit in Australia you run to third base. Very confusing..

Australia knows they’re a long shot but they’re trying to keep hope alive. They have offered us this video of Australian National team coach Jon Deeble teaching fungo. He even works in a Manny Ramirez story.